Woodrow Wilson High School. Photo by Renee Umsted.
Thanks to a couple of weeks in summer camp, the Woodrow Wilson High School Wildcats Marching Band is ready for their season.
An article on the Dallas ISD News Hub reported that the Wildcats in marching band attended “an intensive two-week summer camp” that helped students prepare mentally and physically for performances at football games, competitions and local events. Band members have to learn “stand tunes, competition show music, UIL drills and technique” as well as “strength and conditioning” to be able to perform their nonstop 8-minute show.
“Students improve their musical and marching skills, but also form strong connections with their peers, laying the foundation for a successful and enjoyable season,” Director of Bands Caitlyn Schmidt said in the Dallas ISD News Hub article, adding that the program has grown by about 15% in the past year. “Holding camp before the school year helps students develop discipline and prepare for the time management skills they’ll need to balance band with their other commitments throughout the year. It also gives them a chance to build their ‘family,’ creating a welcoming and supportive environment from day one.”
Spending part of summer honing musical skills may make some kids groan, but band students are passionate about their craft, their band friends and the energy they bring to games.
“We’re kids, and a lot of us don’t like school, but having band gives me motivation,” senior and drum major Ripsi S. said in the Dallas ISD News Hub article. “We’re very important to our school spirit. When morale is down during a game, we’re able to bring some hope and happiness to the game and environment.”
